The One Thing You Should Do With Your Dog

Can you guess the one thing you should do with your dog today?

Take a walk. That's it, just go outside and take your dog for a walk.

The first week of October is National Walk Your Dog Week so we thought this would be a great opportunity to discuss the benefits of walking your dog and hopefully encourage everyone to hit the pavement with their dog.

Taking your dog for a walk shouldn't be regarded as a chore, there are many benefits not only for your dog but for you as well. October is one of our favorite times of year to walk. The weather is finally cooling off from the summer and the Fall foliage is beautiful!

7 Benefits of Walking Your Dog

1. Burn off Energy - Dogs tend to get bored during the day and we all know a bored dog gets into mischief. Going for regular walks will help them burn off their energy in a healthy and non-destructive way.

2. Bonding Time - Our dogs love being with us so why not take them for a walk. It will strengthen the bond between you which will lead to a trusting relationship. 

3. Socialization - Taking a walk will expose your dog to things they may experience at home and help with their socialization skills. It's also a great time to work on training commands such as "sit" and "stay". 

4. Weight Management - Walking is a great way to keep your dog's weight in check. Whether your dog needs to lose a few pounds or maintain their weight, walking can help with both.

5. Digestive Health - Regular walks can be so beneficial for your dog's digestive system by helping to keep things moving as well as avoiding constipation.

6. Joint Pain - If you have a dog that suffers from arthritis and joint pain, keeping them moving really helps ease the pain. Just a short walk a day will help keep them limber. 

7. Your Health - Did you know that a 30 minute walk, three times per week can reduce blood pressure, increase energy and lower your weight by 5% and your dog's weight by 15%!

Miley and Maggie are super hero's when it comes to going on walks, they enjoy every aspect of it. Bruin is a work in process, he tends to have anxiety when on a leash but it is something we are working on with him.

Golden Retrievers are prone to be overweight especially as they age so it's so important for me to get the Goldens leashed up and walking on a regular schedule.

Do you take your dog for a walk?

What's your favorite thing about it?

Let us know in the comments below!